Redundancy can hit hard, especially when it comes out of nowhere. Whether you’re feeling shocked, angry, relieved, or simply numb, know this: you’re not the only one.
We asked members of Mums in Marketing to share their honest experiences, from how their redundancies were handled to what helped them move forward. Here’s what they had to say and what you can learn from our ever-wise MiMs.
It’s not about you
“Remember that it’s the role and not you that has been made redundant.”
“It’s not personal – it’s part of a bigger picture.”
Almost every response emphasised the same message: redundancy does not reflect your worth. While that can be hard to believe in the moment, recognising that it’s often a business decision, not a judgement on your ability, is the first step in regaining your confidence.
How It’s Handled Matters
How a redundancy is communicated and managed can significantly affect how it feels and how you recover. Some respondents shared that the process was handled with clarity and compassion, giving them time to prepare and access support. Others experienced poor communication, rushed conversations, or a lack of empathy, making an already difficult situation worse.
A key takeaway? If you’re currently facing redundancy, it’s worth checking your contract and any company policies carefully. Ask questions, take notes, and don’t be afraid to request clarification or support.
Find out more about your Rights During Redundancy here.
What Actually Helped
“I spoke to contacts who had been through redundancy – they were honest and encouraging.”
From talking to others to having freelance projects on the go, respondents shared some of the key things that helped them through:
- Speaking openly with friends, family, or a peer group can be a huge emotional release. Being able to voice your fears and frustrations without judgment can be a powerful coping mechanism.
- Getting professional advice, such as from an employment lawyer, CV coach, or financial adviser.
- Accessing support like Job Seeker’s Allowance, government redundancy support, or the ACAS website. Having a safety net – even a small one – can reduce some of the pressure.
- Creating a sense of structure during the day. Some used job-hunting checklists, set a daily routine, or made a plan for upskilling.
- Exploring short-term freelance work or volunteering. For some, this kept confidence levels up and maintained a sense of momentum.
- Lean on the community—support from people who “get it” is invaluable. Peer-to-peer encouragement, practical advice, and just being reminded you’re not alone can all help rebuild your sense of self.
If you’re worried about your financial situation during or after redundancy, read this guide to Managing Your Finances After Redundancy.
What to Avoid
“Trying to go through it all on my own. As I felt ashamed, I didn’t talk about it, which made it worse.”
There were clear patterns in what respondents found unhelpful – and even harmful – during the redundancy process. Many spoke about the tendency to internalise blame, to withdraw from support networks, or to rely on colleagues who were, understandably, focused on their own roles and anxieties.
The advice? Don’t isolate yourself or assume you’re supposed to navigate this alone. Resist the urge to overanalyse or replay every detail. And don’t expect those around you, especially in the same workplace, to always be in a position to provide the emotional or practical support you might need.
Being kind to yourself, reaching out for help, and focusing on the next steps (rather than the ‘what ifs’) can significantly improve your resilience and recovery.
The Power of Community
“Peer support is essential – people who understand what you’re going through can make all the difference.”
Peer-to-peer support from groups like Mums in Marketing came up again and again. Most rated it as essential. Whether you need encouragement, a second pair of eyes on your CV, or just someone to say, “This happened to me too,” find your people.
Redundancy can feel like the end, but it’s often the beginning of something better. Many of those who responded shared how the experience, while painful, ultimately led to positive change – whether that was a new role, a different direction, or simply a renewed sense of purpose.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone in the Mums in Marketing community who took the time to share their stories and insights. Your honesty, strength, and generosity will undoubtedly help others feel seen, supported, and a little less alone.
About Mums in Marketing
Mums in Marketing is a global community dedicated to supporting and empowering mums in marketing and the creative industries. We provide a safe space for members to share experiences, gain insights, and build valuable connections, all while balancing the demands of career and motherhood.
If you’re interested in joining us or discussing sponsorship, partnership or event opportunities, please feel free to contact us at hello@mumsinmarketing.net.
